Across the city, Sergio Ramos was making a solid case for being the best centre-back in the world as the main man in Real Madrid's back four. Similarly, Paris Saint-Germain would not have been the same title-winning side without their captain Thiago Silva, who also carried Brazil's defence before they crumbled in the World Cup's latter stages.

Mats Hummels had no such problems this summer, maintaining his Borussia Dortmund form to help Germany win the World Cup. Pablo Zabaleta, contrastingly, faced up to final failure with Argentina - though he was nothing but a success in England after another title-winning year with Manchester City.

This campaign was a breakthrough year for versatile Netherlands and Ajax defender Daley Blind and Toulouse's Serge Aurier, both of whom have been linked with transfers to top clubs this summer. Similarly, Mehdi Benatia's sterling performances in his debut Roma season have caused a swarm of interest in his signature.

And he might be at the tail end of his career, but Mexico's Rafa Marquez became the first player to captain his nation at four World Cups this summer - an achievement which could be impossible to match.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Which of these players deserve to be the highest placed in their position within the Goal 50? Vote in the poll below for a chance to make your voice heard ahead of the announcement on Monday July 28.